The feud between Stephen A. Smith and LeBron James is nearly legendary. The outspoken sportscaster rarely misses a chance to critique the King-often dissecting even the smallest of his gestures. So fans were stunned when, just days ago, Smith set aside his long-standing issues with James to offer him sincere advice about his future.
Luka Doncic’s arrival has upended the Los Angeles Lakers’ power dynamic, both on and off the court. Since February, the Slovenian star has become the team’s present and future, nudging LeBron into a co-pilot role.
Although James recently picked up the player option on his contract, the Lakers have begun building their roster around Doncic. This shift has led some fans and analysts to argue that the franchise is disrespecting the King. Amid the debate, Smith broke character and offered LeBron some unexpected guidance.
SAS’s advice for King James
In a recent episode of Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, Smith dismissed the notion that the Lakers are slighting James.
“No, I don’t think so,” Smith said. “They got new blood-a cat who’s going to be the face of their franchise, while [James] is contemplating walking away from the game in a year or two. That’s just business.”
Smith also pointed out the massive payday James is set to receive in 2025.
“It’s pretty hard to be insulted when you’re being paid $52 million for one year’s work,” he noted, before adding that James arguably deserves even more, given his impact on the NBA.
As for LeBron’s future with the Lakers, Smith offered this advice:
“It’s like there’s a new star in town. That doesn’t mean your star has to descend. You go out on the court and show you’re still that dude. But this brother is that special-and that can’t be ignored.”
Feud still simmering beneath the surface
Despite the momentary truce, Smith made it clear that his criticism of LeBron isn’t going anywhere. In a recent statement, he said:
“There’s no situation. There’s no relationship. He doesn’t like me and I don’t like him.”
Even as Smith acknowledges LeBron’s greatness, SAS hasn’t let go of their animosity either-once calling the Lakers star “the second greatest player in basketball.” With that kind of tension, it’s unlikely this ceasefire will last long.
Read the full article here
